Sunburned? Let's learn about sun-related skin problems (Sunburn)

Sunlight is an indispensable thing for our Sri Lanka. However, sometimes this friendly sun is not so friendly to our skin. After being in the sun for a long time, the skin becomes red and inflamed. We simply call this ' sunburn ' or `(Sunburn)`. The reason for this is the ultraviolet rays that come from the sun that are invisible to our eyes, namely `(Ultraviolet A - UVA)` and `(Ultraviolet B - UVB)` rays. When these fall on the skin too much, it can damage the skin. Not only that, but this can also be a reason for skin cancer over time. Even on a cloudy day, these rays reach the earth, so even if you think that the sun is not strong, the possibility of skin damage is the same.

What exactly is 'sunburn'?

Simply put, a ``Sunburn'' occurs when your skin is exposed to more ``(UV)`` rays than it can handle. Our skin naturally has a protective pigment, which we call ``( melanin )``. This is what determines our skin color . When exposed to the sun, our body tries to protect the skin by increasing the production of ``(melanin).`` But when the sun gets too strong, this defense system can't handle it. That's when the skin burns.

What are the symptoms of a sunburn?

• Redness of the skin (this redness is more noticeable in people with fair skin, but may not be noticeable in people with darker skin).
• Feeling hot to the touch.
• Inflammation and pain.
• Sometimes, in a more severe sunburn, the skin may swell and develop water-filled blisters .
• In very severe cases , fever, chills, and loss of consciousness may occur. Very rarely, a person may even go into shock.

The skin that you have seen will go away within a few days after a sunburn. The skin can be very itchy during this time. Remember, these areas of skin are very sensitive , so it is very likely that the same areas will get sunburned again within a few weeks.

Who is more at risk of sunburn?

Although anyone can get sunburn, some people are at higher risk.

• For those with pale skin .
• For those with light hair, especially red hair .
• For those who use certain medications . These medications increase the skin's sensitivity to the sun.

If you are taking these types of medications, you should be more careful than others when going out in the sun. If you have any questions about the medication you are taking, it is best to ask your doctor .

Home remedies for sunburn

You can do these things at home to get relief from a mild sunburn.

• Place a cloth soaked in cold water on the burned area. This will reduce the inflammation and heat.
• Reduce pain and inflammationYou can take a painkiller like Paracetamol (do not give aspirin to young children without the advice of a doctor).
• Apply a gel or ointment containing aloe vera . This will cool, moisturize, and soothe the skin.
• Avoid going back into the sun until the skin inflammation and pain have completely subsided.
• Drink plenty of water . Sunburn can cause dehydration by removing a lot of water from the body.

When should I see a doctor?

Photosensitivity

`Photosensitivity` is an abnormal reaction of some people's skin to the sun. Some people also call it a ``sun allergy.'' Imagine, just like some people are allergic to food, these people's skin is allergic to the sun.

People with this condition have an overactive immune system that reacts to light, especially sunlight. This can cause a skin rash when exposed to sunlight. Some people may also be sensitive to fluorescent lights used indoors.

Causes of photosensitivity:

• Some medications (such as those mentioned above).
• Skin contact with certain chemicals and perfumes.
• Contact with plants.
• Herbal medicines such as `St. John's wort`.
• Autoimmune diseases such as lupus erythematosus.
• Metabolic diseases that can be inherited, such as `Porphyria`.

In this condition, a pink or red rash, blisters, or welts may appear on the sun-exposed areas. Itching and inflammation may also occur. A doctor may prescribe medications such as steroids to treat this.

A special condition called PMLE (Polymorphous Light Eruption)

Polymorphous Light Eruption (PMLE) is another type of rash that can occur in people who are sensitive to sunlight. This is a condition in which a rash appears on the skin after a few hours of exposure to the sun. The word "polymorphous" refers to the fact that this rash can come in many forms. It can be small red blisters or large dry spots. Itching and burning can last for several days. If you have this condition, you should definitely see a doctor.We need to meet and get advice.

If you want to protect your skin from the sun...

Prevention is always better than cure.

• UVB rays are strongest between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm . Avoid direct sun exposure during this time as much as possible.
• Wear appropriate clothing . Dark-colored, well-woven clothing provides good protection. It is best to wear long-sleeved shirts and pants.
• Wear a big hat and sunglasses .
• Use sunscreen. This is essential.
• Choose one with an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of 30 or higher .
• Get one that says `broad-spectrum`. That means it protects you from both `(UVA)` and `(UVB)` rays.
• It would be better if it contained a ``physical blocker'' like ``zinc oxide''.
• Don't forget to wear sunscreen even on cloudy days.
• Apply sunscreen about 20 minutes before going outside.
• After swimming or sweating, you should reapply sunscreen at least every hour and a half .

Is sunscreen suitable for babies?

It is best to keep babies under 6 months of age out of direct sunlight. If that is not possible, you can apply a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and zinc oxide to small areas such as the cheeks and back of the hands. However, it is wise to do a patch test on your baby's wrist first to see if there is an allergic reaction.